Eight people were killed and more than 20 others were injured late Saturday night in three separate shootings linked to high school homecoming celebrations across Mississippi, according to local authorities.
According to People, the violent spree unfolded in different parts of the state within hours, leaving communities reeling and officials calling for action to address gun violence. The deadliest shooting occurred just after midnight Saturday, October 11, in downtown Leland, where crowds had gathered following a local high school homecoming game.
The Associated Press reported four people were pronounced dead at the scene. Two more victims died later at the hospital. More than 15 others were injured. State Senator Derrick Simmons described the scene as “very chaotic.”
“People were just congregating and having a good time in the downtown of Leland,” Simmons told the AP. “It’s just senseless gun violence. What we are experiencing now is just a proliferation of guns being in circulation.”
No arrests have been announced as of Sunday, and Leland Police have not released information on potential suspects or a motive. Roughly 80 miles east, another shooting broke out Friday night on the grounds of Heidelberg High School following a homecoming game. Police said three people were shot and two later died from their injuries, according to the Associated Press.
Authorities have not said whether any of the victims were students. The Jasper County Sheriff’s Department announced that 18-year-old Tylar Jarod Goodloe is in custody in connection with the shooting. No details on charges or motive have been released.
A third shooting occurred in Sharkey County after a homecoming game on October 10, according to a statement from the Sharkey County Sheriff’s Office. Officials said multiple people were injured, and two individuals have been arrested and charged. The sheriff’s office did not release their names or details about the victims.
“Acts of violence in our community will not be tolerated,” the sheriff’s statement read. “Our team of law enforcement officers are committed to pursuing justice swiftly and ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors that come to our county.”
The string of shootings has sparked concerns among local officials and families across the state as homecoming season continues. Investigations in all three cases are ongoing, and law enforcement agencies are urging anyone with information to come forward.